The first one-day international between England and Pakistan was reduced to a 41-overs-a-side match after heavy rain delayed the start at Chester-le-Street on Friday.

Covers were still in place on the pitch at the scheduled 1015BST (0915GMT) start of what was supposed to be a 50-over match following overnight and morning rain.

After an 1100BST (1000GMT) inspection it was agreed the shortened clash could begin at 1230BST (1130GMT) because the out-field had dried sufficiently.

The delay didn't take the spotlight off Pakistan after the news that Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamer are to fly back home on Friday.

The three players have been charged and suspended by the International Cricket Council under the world governing body's anti-corruption code following newspaper allegations of a betting scam that saw no-balls deliberately bowled in the fourth Test against England at Lord's last month.